This cucumber vinegar salad is a refreshing and tangy dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. The crisp cucumber slices and sweet-tart vinegar dressing combine for a light, healthy side dish that pairs well with just about anything. The red onion adds an extra layer of flavor, while the optional dill brings a delightful herby touch.
It’s a great addition to any meal, whether you’re having a BBQ, a picnic, or a cozy dinner at home. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make—just slice, mix, and refrigerate! Plus, it’s versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite herbs and seasonings. This salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 small red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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1/4 cup water
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dill (optional)
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the cucumber and red onion slices.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
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Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumber and onion, and toss to combine.
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If desired, sprinkle dill on top for an added burst of flavor.
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Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 50 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Cucumber Vinegar Salad: A Refreshing, Healthy, and Simple Side Dish
Cucumber vinegar salad is one of those dishes that brings together simplicity and flavor in a way that makes it an instant favorite. With its light crunch from fresh cucumbers and its zesty kick from vinegar, this salad is the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a side dish for a summer BBQ, this cucumber vinegar salad offers a healthy, refreshing alternative to heavier, more calorie-laden options.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the background, benefits, and reasons why cucumber vinegar salad stands out as one of the best and easiest side dishes to prepare. You’ll also discover tips for customizing this salad to your liking, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
The Origins and Background of Cucumber Vinegar Salad
Cucumber vinegar salad has roots in many cultures across the world. It’s a dish that is simple in nature but brings a burst of fresh flavors that complement a variety of cuisines. The use of cucumbers, vinegar, and salt is common in Eastern European, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines, with each culture putting its own unique spin on the recipe.
The beauty of cucumber vinegar salad lies in its simplicity—there are no fancy or exotic ingredients, just basic items that you likely already have in your kitchen. The use of cucumbers provides a crisp texture, while the vinegar brings acidity and tanginess, which enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. What’s more, it is a naturally gluten-free and low-calorie option, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Health Benefits of Cucumber Vinegar Salad
This salad is not only tasty but also offers numerous health benefits, thanks to its fresh ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at why cucumber vinegar salad is a great addition to any diet.
Low in Calories and High in Hydration
Cucumbers are known for their high water content—about 96% of a cucumber’s weight comes from water. This makes them an excellent choice for hydration, especially during hot weather. With just about 16 calories per cup of sliced cucumber, this salad is a low-calorie option that won’t derail your diet, making it a perfect choice for anyone watching their calorie intake.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cucumbers are packed with antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which help protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. The antioxidants found in cucumbers can support skin health, help reduce inflammation, and promote general wellness. By incorporating cucumber into your diet, you’re giving your body a boost of health-promoting nutrients.
Supports Digestion
Vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, has long been known for its digestive benefits. It can promote healthy digestion by increasing stomach acidity, which helps break down food more effectively. In addition, the acetic acid in vinegar may support healthy blood sugar levels by reducing spikes after meals. The vinegar in this salad not only enhances flavor but may also offer digestive benefits.
Detoxifying Properties
Both cucumbers and vinegar have natural detoxifying properties. Cucumbers contain compounds that can help flush out toxins from the body, while vinegar is known to support liver function and cleanse the system. Together, they create a powerful combination that supports overall health and detoxification.
Why Cucumber Vinegar Salad is the Best
Cucumber vinegar salad stands out for its incredible versatility, ease of preparation, and incredible health benefits. Here are a few reasons why this salad should become a staple in your kitchen:
Simple and Quick to Prepare
One of the best features of this recipe is how easy it is to make. It requires only a few ingredients—cucumbers, vinegar, onion, sugar, salt, and pepper—and comes together in just a few minutes. The longest step is allowing the salad to marinate in the fridge, but this is just to let the flavors meld together. Whether you’re in a rush or preparing for a larger meal, this salad takes minimal effort to put together, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
Customizable to Your Taste
While the basic version of cucumber vinegar salad is refreshing and tangy, the recipe is highly customizable. You can add a variety of fresh herbs, such as dill or mint, to change up the flavor profile. Additionally, you can swap out white vinegar for apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar depending on your taste preferences. The sweetness level can be adjusted by adding more or less sugar, and you can even experiment with adding some chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Ideal for Various Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, preparing a light lunch, or simply need a quick side dish for a family dinner, cucumber vinegar salad is the ideal choice. Its bright, refreshing flavors complement a wide range of main dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even sandwiches. This salad is also perfect for picnics and potlucks since it can be made ahead and served chilled.
Affordable and Accessible
Another major benefit of cucumber vinegar salad is that it doesn’t require any expensive or hard-to-find ingredients. Cucumbers and vinegar are inexpensive, pantry staples that are available in most grocery stores year-round. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly recipe for anyone, regardless of their location or budget.
Dietary-Friendly
Whether you’re following a vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, this salad is suitable for most dietary restrictions. It’s completely plant-based, low in carbohydrates, and free from gluten, making it a versatile option for a wide range of dietary preferences.
How to Make the Most Out of Cucumber Vinegar Salad
If you want to elevate your cucumber vinegar salad or incorporate it into a larger meal, here are a few tips to make the most out of this refreshing dish:
Add Protein for a Complete Meal
While cucumber vinegar salad makes an excellent side dish, you can turn it into a more substantial meal by adding protein. For instance, you can toss in some cooked chicken breast, grilled shrimp, or even chickpeas for a hearty, satisfying dish.
Pair with Other Fresh Dishes
Cucumber vinegar salad works beautifully when paired with other fresh dishes. Try serving it alongside a quinoa salad, hummus, or a vegetable stir-fry for a well-rounded, nutritious meal. The crisp and tangy flavors of the cucumber salad balance out the richness of other dishes.
Make Ahead for Easy Meal Prep
This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious after a day or two. It’s a great addition to lunchboxes or as a quick side to serve with any main course.
Conclusion
Cucumber vinegar salad is a light, refreshing, and versatile dish that is perfect for nearly any occasion. With its minimal ingredients and ease of preparation, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a healthy, low-calorie side dish to their meals. The health benefits of cucumbers and vinegar, along with the customizable nature of the recipe, make this dish a staple that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re preparing it for a BBQ, picnic, or a quick weeknight dinner, cucumber vinegar salad will never disappoint with its tangy, refreshing flavor. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that proves sometimes, less really is more.
This salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients to support overall health. Try this refreshing recipe today, and it’s sure to become a go-to dish in your cooking repertoire!